A guide to the perfect jumpsuit

Whatever your budget or body type, the perfect jumpsuit for you is out there and this guide can help you find it.

Jumpsuits have been big news on the fashion scene for several seasons now, but many women shy away from the trend believing that you have to be a six foot tall, rail thin supermodel to pull off a jumpsuit. This is nothing but a misconception.  Jumpsuits can be versatile and extremely flattering. Regardless of the occasion and time of the day, jumpsuits can be dressed up or down to suit any body shape. Whatever your budget or body type, the perfect jumpsuit for you is out there somewhere and this guide can help you find it.

Louise Goldin Best for: Slim women

Goldin wowed critics at the London Fashion Week with her sharp, inky-hued Autumn/Winter 2010 collection. Her emphasis on the jumpsuit should certainly prove its status as this season’s must-have piece. Form-fitting and narrowly cut in a striking shade of deep blue, Goldin’s take on the jumpsuit is definitely one for more body confidant woman, who are not scared to show off her figure.

How to wear: If you opt for a fitted jumpsuit, make like Louise Goldin then go for a darker colour as this will be far more flattering when worn head-to-toe. Wear it with a simple pair of heels and a cropped jacket for the office then just add a statement necklace and a fabulous clutch to be instantly party-ready. It’s conservative but fashion forward.

Willow Best for: all body types

For a glamorous take on the trend look no further than must-have Aussie label, Willow.  Willow’s printed silk jumpsuit is an excellent choice for curvy women. Its long sleeves, draping loose fit make it more wearable than Goldin’s fitted styles.

How to wear: With platforms, blow-dried locks and a skinny leather belt.

If your style is more minimalist then Willow’s immaculately cut, nude jumpsuit should be right up your alley. The soft hues and elegant tailoring make for understated chic whilst a clever gathering around the waist will disguise a not quite washboard flat stomach. Pair with statement heels and a sleek up-do.

Braver fashionistas will love Willow’s sequin-embellished scarlet jumpsuit. Team it with simple heels and minimal make-up.

Elie Tahari Best for: Petite or curvy women

With its fluid, silky texture and ruffle-detailing, Elie Tahari has the most feminine take on the trend. The cinched waist makes its glossy numbers look perfect for the Pakistani body type. While the idea of head-to-toe silk may sound scary this jumpsuit is so well cut that it becomes very flattering.

How to wear: With one of this season’s must-have faux fur jackets and stilettos. Keep the jewellery to a minimum.

Mango Best for: all body types

Retail brand Mango has a number of retro jumpsuits to offer this season. It has provided a number of styles including halter-necks, and long-sleeved versions.  With their relaxed fit, belted waists and neutral hues, Mango’s jumpsuits are suitable for day or night.

How to wear: For a casual, daytime look choose their steel grey, shirt-style jumpsuit and team it with this seasons’ high-heel hiker boots and a long silver pendant. Or pick their sandy hued, V-neck jumpsuit and team it up with peep-toe platforms and a chunky gold necklace.

Don’t be afraid to embrace the all-in-one trend, which has taken this season by storm. Just do a little research to find the ones that works for you.

Iman’s Dos

• Wear darker coloured jumpsuits


• Always wear a slight heel to elongate your body


• Choose the correct style for your body shape


• Choose the right fabric


• Add blazers for a more sophisticated look

Iman’s Don’ts

• Wear prints unless you’re petite


• Wear ¾ length jumpsuits, they shorten you


• Wear boots

Published in The Express Tribune, December 12^th, 2010.